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Steelers to release Mike Mitchell: report

Updated March 9, 2018 at 3:47 PM;Posted March 9, 2018 at 2:52 PM

Steelers free safety Mike Mitchell is set to be released ahead of NFL free agency next week, according to the NFL Network. Here, Mitchell is introduced before an NFL game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Fred Vuich)(Fred Vuich)

Mitchell was set to make $5 million in base salary and cost the Steelers $8,135,418 against the salary cap under his current deal, which expires after 2018. According to the network the Steelers are open to re-signing Mitchell on cheaper terms. His release would save the Steelers $5 million in cap space.

The veteran free safety who signed with the team in 2014 tweeted moments before Rapoport's report "It is what it is."

Mitchell played through injury in much of his time in Pittsburgh, reportedly playing a portion of the 2014 season despite needing groin surgery. He struggled with hamstring and ankle injuries in 2017, missing three games as he compiled 35 solo tackles and 18 assisted ones, two pass breakups and no turnovers.

Mitchell's release would leave the Steelers with $5,542,015 of cap room.

If he is not re-signed by the team Sean Davis and Robert Golden would be the top two safeties left from last year's roster. J.J. Wilcox, who was dropped at the end of the season following a series of special teams penalties against the Cincinnati Bengals, also remains as does practice squad veteran Jordan Dangerfield.

Source says Steelers informed J.J. Wilcox of their interest in him returning, expected to have chance to play more snaps and possibly start. Was out of rotation after trade from TB last year.